Keystone Lake Fishing Report Guide
Keystone Lake Fishing Report Guide
Hey there, fishing friends! Today, we’re diving into all things Keystone Lake, a fantastic fishing destination just 8 miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, on the scenic Arkansas River. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, Keystone Lake has something for everyone. Let’s get ready to explore this beautiful lake and all the fishing opportunities it offers!
About Keystone Lake Fishing
Keystone Lake is a man-made reservoir created by damming the Arkansas River. It was completed in 1968 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The lake was named after the nearby town of Keystone, Oklahoma, and has since become a popular spot for fishing, boating, and enjoying the great outdoors. With its stunning scenery and diverse fish population, Keystone Lake is a prime destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Keystone Lake Fishing Details
Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know about Keystone Lake:
- Water Surface: 23,600 acres
- Shoreline: 330 miles
- Average Depth: 24 feet
- Max Depth: 73 feet
- Surface Elevation: 723 feet
- Location: Ponca City, Oklahoma
- Coordinates: 36.2922° N, 96.3522° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via multiple boat ramps and public access points
- Type of Lake: Reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat ramps, fishing docks, campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and restrooms
Types of Fish in Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers. Here’s a look at the different types of fish you can catch and where you’re likely to find them:
- Largemouth Bass: These fish are often found around submerged structures like fallen trees, rock piles, and vegetation. The best spots are usually along the shoreline and in shallow coves.
- Smallmouth Bass: These are typically found near rocky areas and steep drop-offs. Look for them around the dam and in deeper parts of the lake.
- White Bass: You’ll find white bass schooling in open water, especially during the spring and fall. They are often near points and drop-offs.
- Crappie: Crappie love hiding around brush piles, submerged trees, and docks. Look for them in deeper water during the summer and in shallow areas during spring and fall.
- Catfish (Channel, Blue, and Flathead): Catfish can be found throughout the lake but are especially abundant in deeper channels and around the dam. Night fishing is particularly effective for these guys.
- Walleye: Walleye are often found near rocky points and submerged islands. They tend to move deeper as the water warms up, so try fishing in deeper waters during the summer.
- Striped Bass: Striped bass are often found in open water and near the dam. They follow schools of baitfish, so keep an eye out for feeding activity.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle for Keystone Lake Fishing
Choosing the right bait and tackle can make all the difference in your fishing success. Here are some top recommendations for Keystone Lake:
- Largemouth Bass: Try using plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Topwater lures are also great, especially in the early morning or late evening.
- Smallmouth Bass: Use jigs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Soft plastics that mimic crayfish can be particularly effective.
- White Bass: Jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits work well. Live minnows are also a good choice.
- Crappie: Small jigs, minnows, and tube baits are excellent for crappie. Use light tackle to increase your chances of a catch.
- Catfish: Cut bait, chicken liver, and stink bait are popular choices. For bigger catfish, try using live bait like shad or bluegill.
- Walleye: Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are effective. Crankbaits and spinner rigs also work well, especially in deeper water.
- Striped Bass: Live bait like shad is very effective. You can also use large crankbaits, swimbaits, and topwater lures.
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- Unbeatable Value: This fishing lure kit contains two crankbaits that run at a depth of 9 to 14 feet and serves as a great addition to your tackle box to cover a huge range
- The Cotton Cordell Wally Diver has proven that its slender profile and tight wiggle produce big walleye and bass.
- DOUBLE-BLADE UNIQUE DESIGN – TRUSCEND fishing lures for bass uses a double-blade rotating tail design, which delivers a heavy sputter as it moves across the surface, create noise and commotion that fish can not ignore. It also “roll resistant” and works well at a variety of speeds. Interestingly, when the monster bass bites the top water fishing lures, its tail will close to prevent the bass from spitting it out.
- ULTRA-SHARP OWNER HOOKS – Equipped with sharp high quality OWNER high carbon steel hooks and built-in magnet, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hook ups in all situations while Reduce the odds getting hung up when fishing, thus saving your bait for future use.
- ✅ Purpose and Size: These grubs for fishing attract a wide variety of fish including trout, crappie, panfish, bluegill, bream, roach, carp and more. Using grub fishing lures that imitate worms offers many advantages over live worms or minnows. These crappie lures are equipped with an optimal size hook and a rubber grub. The hook dimensions are 10 mm wide and 25 mm long, and the length of the larva itself is 22 mm.
Best Fishing Spot Locations at Keystone Lake Fishing
Knowing where to cast your line can significantly boost your chances of a great catch. Here are some of the best fishing spots at Keystone Lake:
- Cowskin Bay: This area is known for its abundance of crappie and bass. The submerged trees and brush piles provide excellent cover for these fish.
- Salt Creek: A great spot for largemouth bass and catfish. The creek’s shallow waters and abundant vegetation make it a prime fishing location.
- Bear Glen Cove: This cove is popular for its white bass and walleye. The rocky points and drop-offs are perfect habitats for these species.
- Windy Crest: Known for its excellent catfish fishing, especially at night. The deeper channels here are a hotspot for big catches.
- Keystone Dam: Fishing near the dam can be highly productive, especially for striped bass and walleye. The deep waters and strong currents attract a variety of fish.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Keystone Lake Fishing
To make the most of your fishing trip to Keystone Lake, here are some handy tips:
- Check the Weather: Fish are more active during overcast days or when there’s a light drizzle. Avoid fishing during extreme weather conditions.
- Use a Fish Finder: If you have access to a fish finder, use it to locate schools of fish and underwater structures.
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, as fish are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
- Stay Quiet: Fish can be easily spooked by noise, so try to keep your movements and sounds to a minimum.
- Experiment with Depth: If you’re not having luck at one depth, try adjusting your bait or lure to different depths until you find where the fish are biting.
Keystone Lake Fishing Reviews
Here are some glowing reviews from anglers who’ve had a blast fishing at Keystone Lake:
- John S. from Tulsa, OK: “Keystone Lake is my go-to spot for bass fishing. The variety of fish and the beautiful scenery make every trip worthwhile. I always come back with a good catch!”
- Mary L. from Wichita, KS: “We had an amazing time fishing at Keystone Lake. The kids caught their first catfish, and we enjoyed a peaceful day out on the water. Highly recommend it!”
- Dave R. from Oklahoma City, OK: “The crappie fishing at Keystone Lake is top-notch. The submerged trees and brush piles make it easy to find them. Can’t wait to go back!”
- Lisa M. from Dallas, TX: “Keystone Lake is fantastic for family fishing trips. The amenities are great, and the fishing spots are easy to access. We love coming here every summer.”
- Tom B. from Kansas City, MO: “Caught my biggest striped bass at Keystone Lake! The thrill of reeling it in was unforgettable. This lake never disappoints.”
Top-Rated Closest RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds for Keystone Lake Fishing
If you’re planning an extended stay, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Keystone Lake:
- Cowskin Bay Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, picnic areas, restrooms
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, fishing docks, playground
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
- Salt Creek Campground:
- Features: Shaded campsites, boat ramps, picnic areas
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers
- Distance to Lake: 1 mile
- Bear Glen Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, hiking trails
- Amenities: Full hookups, restrooms, picnic areas, playground
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
- Windy Crest Campground:
- Features: Scenic views, boat ramps, picnic areas
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers
- Distance to Lake: 0.5 miles
- Keystone Dam Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, fishing docks
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, picnic areas
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
Keystone Lake Fishing Summary
Keystone Lake is truly a fishing haven that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re here for the largemouth bass, the crappie, or the catfish, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience. The lake’s natural beauty, combined with its excellent fishing opportunities, makes it a must-visit destination for anglers of all levels. So pack your gear, bring your family, and get ready to create some amazing memories at Keystone Lake!
Frequently Asked Questions for Keystone Lake Fishing
1. Do I need a fishing license to fish at Keystone Lake? Yes, a valid Oklahoma fishing license is required to fish at Keystone Lake. Licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers.
2. Are there any fishing regulations I need to be aware of? Yes, there are specific regulations regarding the size and number of fish you can catch. Make sure to check the latest Oklahoma fishing regulations before heading out.
3. Can I fish from the shore, or do I need a boat? You can fish from both the shore and a boat at Keystone Lake. There are plenty of accessible fishing spots along the shoreline.
4. What’s the best time of year to fish at Keystone Lake? Spring and fall are generally the best times to fish at Keystone Lake, as the water temperatures are ideal for most fish species.
5. Are there any local bait shops near Keystone Lake? Yes, there are several bait shops near Keystone Lake where you can purchase live bait, lures, and other fishing supplies.
Thanks for joining me on this fishing adventure at Keystone Lake! I hope this guide helps you have an amazing time out on the water. Remember to share your fishing stories and photos with us – we’d love to hear about your experiences. Tight lines and happy fishing, folks!
